These children enjoy the Pen Argyl Christmas Party held at Weona Park Friday night. PHOTO GALLERYSbtt Photo Jennifer Trinkley Photography

S.A.D. Treatment AvailableOne in 5 are depressed this time of year

Feeling blue? Up to a whopping 20 percent of us suffer from SAD—seasonal affective disorder—each year when the winter comes around. Now, a new study has revealed how we can treat it. As the season shifts to a cold, murky winter, you may find that your mood mirrors the world around you. Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is a form of depressive disorder triggered by the changing of the seasons. It typically kicks in toward the end of fall and can last for months at a time. The symptoms manifest as low moods, tiredness, and a difficulty concentrating, as well as these additional signs of SAD. Now, researchers in Vermont think they may have found the most effective solution to this condition yet, and it doesn’t cost a thing. Between 4 and 6 percent of the population battles with SAD, according to the American Academy of Family Physicians—that’s more than 14 million Americans. Another 10 to 20 percent of people have a mild form of SAD. The most common SAD treatment is light box therapy. The strong light produces by the box mimics natural sunlight, increasing a person’s serotonin levels and boosting their well-being. Yet it comes with downsides: The therapy doesn’t always work, a box can be costly, and you may have to sit in front of it for long periods of time. According to a study by the University of Vermont, there may be a more effective way to combat the onset of SAD: talking through it. The researchers recruited 177 participants, all of whom were suffering from the disorder. Over the course of six weeks, each individual was treated using either light therapy or a form of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) designed to challenge and change their negative thoughts about winter darkness. This is how CBT works to change your behavior. The researchers checked back in with the participants two winters after the initial treatment. Nearly half of people who tried the light box therapy reported a recurrence of their depression, while only 27 percent of the people who had CBT suffered a recurrence. The results seem to suggest that using CBT and talking about the issue may be a more effective long-term strategy than using a gadget to simulate daylight. “The degree of improvement was substantial,” writes Kelly Rohan, a psychology professor at the University of Vermont and the lead author on the study. While both treatments seemed to help considerably, CBT had longer lasting benefits, say the researchers. The core idea of CBT is that a person can change the way they feel and act by shifting the way in which they perceive a situation. The great thing about this type of therapy is that if you sign up with a professional, it may be covered by your insurance. You can also find ways to direct your own CBT through free online resources, like Living Life to the Full, or by using an app like Pacifica.

These people enjoyed eating breakfast with Santa and Mrs Claus put on by the Friends of the Bangor Public Library Saturday morning at the Bee Hive. PHOTO GALLERYSbtt Photo Larry Cory

Cartwright, Whitehouse Introduce Bill

Legislation would protect wildlife & nature from climate change Washington, DC – U.S. Representative Matt Cartwright (D-PA-17) and Senator Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI) introduced a bill to protect the country’s wildlife and natural resources from climate change. Building on existing federal, state, and local efforts, Whitehouse and Cartwright’sSafeguarding America’s Future and Environment (SAFE) Act would establish an integrated national approach to ongoing and expected effects of extreme weather and climate change. “Climate change poses an immediate and long-term threat to the natural resources and environmental landscape that so many local communities depend on. Preparing for climate change will reduce long-term costs and protect our nation’s natural resources for future generations,” said Rep. Cartwright, vice-chair of the Sustainable Energy and Environment Coalition (SEEC). “This bill will develop a climate change adaption plan to protect our lands and waters, such as the Delaware River and Pocono Mountains. I look forward to working with Senator Whitehouse on this vital legislation.” “Responsible management of natural resources underpins economic opportunity and quality of life for all our communities. In Rhode Island, we know how important it is to safeguard natural treasures like Narragansett Bay and our beautiful coastline, which drive our economy and make our state a wonderful place to live,” said Sen. Whitehouse. “This bill would establish a nationwide strategy to build on the good work Rhode Islanders and Americans everywhere are doing to protect their environment from climate change and prepare for what’s to come.” The SAFE Act would require federal natural resource agencies to form an interagency working group to plan and implement a long-term national climate change adaptation strategy based on the best available science. State, local, and tribal governments, as well as nongovernmental organizations, academic institutions, and private sector representatives, would be called upon to lend their expertise to the working group. The legislation would require agencies to work together to identify and prioritize specific conservation and management strategies and actions to respond to extreme weather and climate change. It would also encourage the development of state-specific adaptation plans. This national strategy would guide federal adaptation plans and reduce redundancy and costs. The SAFE Act would also create the National Climate Change and Wildlife Science Center, which would develop and compile scientific information on climate variability. “This last year we witnessed widespread destruction of habitats by catastrophic fires, floods, and hurricanes that were worsened by our warming climate,” said Jamie Rappaport Clark, president and CEO of Defenders of Wildlife. “We need to prepare for the real impacts of climate change, and the SAFE Act provides a roadmap to conserve our irreplaceable natural resources in the face of these threats. Senator Whitehouse and Representative Cartwright are showing real and much needed leadership on one of today’s most important issues. We need to manage our forests, waters, and wetlands to withstand the onslaught of a warming planet.” Endorsing organizations include Defenders of Wildlife, Rocky Mountain Wild, Winter Wildlands Alliance, American Rivers, National Wildlife Federation, Conservation Northwest, American Society of Landscape Architects, Climate Resilience Fund, and the Wildlife Society.

These children had the opportunity to meet Santa for breakfast at the Scorecard in Wind Gap Saturday morning. PHOTO GALLERYSbtt Photo Jennifer Trinkley Photography

Drawing Workshop Pocono Arts Cultural Center, 18 N. 7th St., Stroudsburg6:30-8:30pmNever taken a drawing class before? Feel rusty or simply lack confidence? This class is for you. Beginning with a simple contour, you will use line to discover a variety of shapes and forms from a still life to the human figure. The foundational and formal aspects of sketching and drawing will be demonstrated. Explore the steps in drawing from an idea to a sketch to a completed drawing.MATERIALS LISTTuition: Member $75/Non-Member $85: Senior Member $65/Non-Member $75

BHS Choirs Winter Concert 1 Bangor Area High School choirs will hold their winter concert Tuesday, December 5 at 7:30pm in the M. Craig Paine Performing Arts Theater. Performing Ensembles will be the Concert Choir, Symphonic Choir, and Chamber Choir.

​​Free RN/LPN Reactivation/Review Info Sessions at NCC Free information sessions will be held at Northampton Community College for nursing professionals with an inactive or international license who would like to re-enter the workforce. Programs will ensure those interested in returning to practice will have everything they require to begin the classes in January 2018. For more information and to register for a session, please visit www.northampton.edu/HealthcareCourses. For questions, please call 610-332-6585. Tuesday, December 5, at the Fowler Family Southside Center in Bethlehem, Room 505, 6 p.m. Thursday, December 7, at the Monroe Campus in Tannersville, Room 011 Kapp Hall, 6 p.m.​ Monday, January 8, at the Fowler Family Southside Center in Bethlehem, Room 505, 7 p.m.

Weather Related Forecasts

Air QualityGood

DrivingWet Roads

RunningGood

Wendy’s fundraiser Come out to Wendy's in Wind Gap on December 6th between 5:00 and 8:00 pm. Wendy's will be donating 10% of the sales to Blue Mountain Community Library.

Wednesday Evening Painting Workshop Pocono Arts Cultural Center, 18 N. 7th St., Stroudsburg“Painting Alla Prima” (all at one go)Instructor John McAllister6:30-8:30pm All painting mediums welcome, watercolor, tempera, acrylic, oil, whatever you are comfortable with. Bring your own materials and instructor John McAllister will help you with composition, color, value and basis techniques. The focus of the workshop is to complete or nearly complete a painting in one 2 hour sitting.Tuition: $10.00

Happy Birthday Jesus Party Grace Church, 404 Mountain Avenue, Pen Argyl will hold a family Happy Birthday Jesus Party on Saturday, December 9 from 11am to 1pm. There will be games, drama, crafts, stories, lunch. The party will be fun for all. Please come and bring a friend. All children will receive goody bags. Please RSVP to Grace Church 610 863-4811.

Canned Food Drive Lookout Fire Company will hold it's annual canned food drive to benefit the Pen Argyl Salvation Army Food Pantry on Monday, December 11th from 6:45pm to 7:45pm. Residents are asked to place any canned food and/or non-perishable food items in a bag and place it on their front porch with the porch light on. Items will then be picked up by members of the fire company in the fire truck. Items may also be dropped off at the following locations between now and December 11th:

Pen Argyl Borough Hall, 11 N. Robinson Avenue

State Senator Mario Scavello's office, 2 N. Robinson Avenue

Slate Belt YMCA, 315 W. Pennsylvania Avenue

Mirror, Mirror Hair Salon, 106 W. Main Street

Please join us in helping fill our local food bank this holiday season and helping families in need.

Christmas Cantata ​The East Bangor United Methodist Community Church will present a Christmas Cantata, "Let There Be Christmas" (by Joseph Martin) at the 9:15 a.m.worship service on Sunday, December 24th. At 7:00 p.m. there will be a traditional service of Carols and Candlelighting. Please join us for this Christmas Eve day of songs of praise. The church is located at 136 W. Central Ave. (Rt. 512), East Bangor, PA. For more info., call 610-588-4453 or visit ebumc.org.

New Year’s Day Pork and Sauerkraut Dinner Belfast Wesley United Methodist Church, 607 School Rd., Nazareth, Pa. will hold an All You Can Eat Pork and Sauerkraut Dinner on Sunday, January 1st, 2018 from 1:00PM-4:00PM. Tickets are: Adult- $10.00, Child 3yr-10yr- $5.00, Under 3 Free. Please call Tom for more information 610-751- 4400.

Local Business Owner Writes Book Sales Magic: 12 Steps to Achieve Massive Sales Growth, is a new sales book written by local business owner, Bill Skinner and its focus is helping salespeople from all industries close more sales. When asked why he wrote the book, Bill explained it this way: “Two questions we are always asked as business coaches are; “how do I compete with competitors with lower pricing”, and “how do I close more sales?” To answer those reoccurring questions is why I wrote this book. Through research and teaching a variety of sales techniques over the past 12 years, my partner and I developed a 12 Step Process onhow to successfully navigate through the face-to- face sales meeting, which never seemed to be clearly defined. The book discusses the salesperson’s mindset and walks the reader through an easy-to- follow sales process from lead to closed sale, complete with narrations and graphics. However, the real Sales Magic is when the 12 Step Process is followed before, during, and after the face-to- face sales meeting with the prospect or client. Sales Magic will teach you how to ask for the sale in a low-pressure way, while ensuring fulfillment of the prospect’s needs and wants. I want to see salespeople succeed by following a consistentprocess that helps them close more sales and make themselves and their companies more money.” Available on Amazon at https://www.amazon.com/dp/197770414X/ Bill, along with his partner, Rick Munson, are business coaches/advisors helping business owners and executives build better businesses and teams all throughout the Poconos and Lehigh Valley Area. If you would like more information about Sales Magic: 12 Steps to Achieve Greater Success, or to schedule a meeting with Bill, please call the office at 570-517- 7100 or email Jenny at admin@paramountbusinessdevelopment.com. You may also visit our website at wwwparamountbusinessdevelopment.com.

"Thank You" from Bloom During this season of counting blessings, we count YOU! We are so thankful for YOU and others like YOU who have shopped at our social enterprise, Bloom Creative Studio and supported Bloom, our 2 year residential program for women survivors of trauma and addiction. Your time, talent and treasure have provided the way for 19 women to begin a journey of healing and hope. While 11 survivors have moved on, 8 remain and are doing the hard work of starting over in historic downtown Bangor -- a community filled with hope and opportunity. Bloom follows the model developed by the remarkably successful Thistle Farms Nashville program that launched in 1997 and we are one of more than 40 structured residential communities nationwide empowering women locally and offering hope towards building a new future. Along with Thistle Farms, our mission is to heal, empower and employ women survivors of trafficking, trauma and addiction. This is done by providing safe, supportive housing, the opportunity for economic independence and a strong community of advocates and partners. Thank you again for believing in our work – without you it would not be possible! We treasure your faithful partnership and fervent prayers on behalf of the courageous women who call Bloom home.

THIS DAY IN HISTORY - December 5

Aircraft squadron lost in the Bermuda Triangle 1945

​ At 2:10 p.m., five U.S. Navy Avenger torpedo-bombers comprising Flight 19 take off from the Ft. Lauderdale Naval Air Station in Florida on a routine three-hour training mission. Flight 19 was scheduled to take them due east for 120 miles, north for 73 miles, and then back over a final 120-mile leg that would return them to the naval base. They never returned. Two hours after the flight began, the leader of the squadron, who had been flying in the area for more than six months, reported that his compass and back-up compass had failed and that his position was unknown. The other planes experienced similar instrument malfunctions. Radio facilities on land were contacted to find the location of the lost squadron, but none were successful. After two more hours of confused messages from the fliers, a distorted radio transmission from the squadron leader was heard at 6:20 p.m., apparently calling for his men to prepare to ditch their aircraft simultaneously because of lack of fuel. By this time, several land radar stations finally determined that Flight 19 was somewhere north of the Bahamas and east of the Florida coast, and at 7:27 p.m. a search and rescue Mariner aircraft took off with a 13-man crew. Three minutes later, the Mariner aircraft radioed to its home base that its mission was underway. The Mariner was never heard from again. Later, there was a report from a tanker cruising off the coast of Florida of a visible explosion seen at 7:50 p.m.

Donations for Animal Shelter

The Slate Belt Animal Advocacy group is raising money for a desperately needed animal shelter. Click the logo above to go to the donor page on Facebook.

Gift of Life Organ Donor AwarenessBangor Woman Organizes Promo Night​

Lisa Rigione of Bangor is a donor Mom. Her son Mike DeBiase was an organ donor and saved six lives when he passed away from a brain bleed in February, 2015. He was 23. Twenty Two people die everyday waiting for a transplant. Lisa helped organize a Gift of Life Organ Donor Awareness Night to bring awareness to the importance of organ donation. She also volunteers and speaks for the Gift of Life. She was lucky enough to partner with the Lehigh Valley Phantoms Hockey team for a night of awareness which will be held 7:05pm Saturday, February 17 at the PPL center in Allentown. The Gift of Life will be the Phantoms' Non-profit of the night. Tickets are $20.00 (lower level). Go to www.pplcenter.com then to Events and tickets tab, find promotions and type "GIFTOFLIFE" Promo code:GIFTOFLIFE, additonal fees may apply.

Toys for Tots Drop Off Locations​ First United Methodist Church, 55 N. 3rd St., Bangor and their Thrift Store at 38 Broadway, Bangor have been designated drop off locations for Toys for Tots. The are currently accepting donations through December. Toys must be unwrapped and new. ​​

BASD Wellness Walking Programs ​ The Bangor Area School District Wellness Committee wants to extend an invitation to the families in our school community to participate in the following healthy activities throughout the school year. These are programs that the faculty eagerly awaits and competes in each year. Project Zero: November 20-January 2, 2018: The goal of this program is to maintain your weight throughout the holiday season from Thanksgiving to New Year’s Day. Eat in moderation and exercise to break even! 10,000 Steps: April 2, 2018- May 2, 2018: This is not a team walk rather it is an individual walking program where you find the average of your daily steps and set a personal goal to increase the steps each day. Strive to achieve 10,000 steps a day! To find the average; record your steps for any 3 days and divide the total by 3 and that will give you an average of steps walked per day) Here you can find a way to compete among family members, friend groups, or with neighbors. Be creative in the rewards or prizes! Look for more information on the Bangor Area School District web page under the wellness link or email them at wellness@bangorsd.org

Pen Argyl Park Yoga: Mondays and Thursdays at the Weona Park Community Center at 6 P.M. Please contact Janelle Connolly at 484-707-5961 or http://www.namastefit.org Weona Park community center building. All levels welcome. Beginners encouraged to attend. Class fee will be $10 Please bring a mat, towel and small blanket. Please arrive 10 minutes prior to class start. Dress in clothing that you can easily move in and feel comfortable in. Recommend dressing in light layers

Friends of the Bangor Public Library Events The Friends of the Bangor Public Library announce the following Save-the-Date” events:​​​​​

December 2nd: Breakfast w/ Santa @ The Bee Hive Community Center

The Friends meet the 3rd Thursday of each month @ 7:00 PM at the Library. New members are always welcome. For additional information contact: Karen Brewer @ 610-588-8615

Totts Gap Arts Events Schedule

December 10Community Open House​

Heritage Center Calendar of Events

Slate Belt Heritage Center Calendar of Events for 2017​​​​​​

Sunday, December 10, 2 PM- “The Great Slate Belt Trivia Contest”-Master of Ceremonies, Marc Blau will host a trivia game for teams of four or make your own team or just show up and join in another team. Prizes for the winners.

Sunday, January 14, 2 PM- TBA

Sunday, February 11, 2 PM- TBA

Sunday, March 11, 2 PM- “The Life of Blaine Reimel” – James Paynter relates the life of the Slate Belt’s first fatality in World War II.

Thursday, April 12th, 7 PM – TBA

Thursday, May 10, 7 PM – “Memories of the Slate Belt” presented by former Bangor resident and graduate of the class of 1964, David Blau.

Thursday, June 21, 7 PM – “Annual Preservation Awards”.

Thursday, July 12, 7 PM – “Restoration of the Slate Hoists” – Mike Piersa will conduct an outdoor presentation of the manufacturing and operation of the restored Flory slate hoists which now reside in Bethel Park.

Thursday, August, 9, 7 PM- TBA

Thursday, September 13, 7 PM- TBA

Thursday, October 11, 7 PM- “Haunted Heritage Program”.

Thursday, November 8, 7 PM- “World War I Veterans”- presented by William Casamassima.

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Civil Air Patrol Meets Every Monday The Civil Air Patrol 807th Braden Squadron meets every Monday Night from 6:30 to 8:30 at the Bangor VFW or Braden Airpark, Easton Call for meeting location on given night: 610-588-1459 http://cap807.com/​

​ Letters To The Homefront Book Orders Letters to Homefront: “A Love Story Between a Community and its World War II Soldiers” is now in its second printing stage. The Slate Belt Heritage Center is now receiving orders for the books. Those interested in making a purchase can send a check for $40.00 to the Center @ 30 North 1st Street, Bangor, PA w/Att: Homefront Book. Distribution will be on Saturday, December 2nd from 9 -Noon. (just in time for Christmas presents). For additional information contact: Karen Brewer @ 484-894-5661​

​DiscoverE Adventure Backpacks Available When: Monday thru Saturday, 8:00 AM to 2:30 PM Where: Jacobsburg Visitor Center, 400 Belfast Road, Nazareth Borrow a backpack full of kid-friendly tools to explore Jacobsburg! These backpacks are best for families with young children. Each backpack includes binoculars, notepad, colored pencils, magnifying lens, bug box, dip net, and five field guides for exploring the pond, insects, birds, trees, butterflies and moths. For more information call 610-746-2801 or email jacobsburgsp@pa.gov.

Going out of Town?

Going out of town? Let SBRPD know that your house will be vacant and we'll do frequent drive-bys to ensure that you home is watched. Follow the link below, hover over the "Contact Us" tab and fill out a vacation /Residence Check Request. Officers will swing by your house and check it out for you. Safe travels... http://slatebeltpd.com/

Musical Instrument Collection Drive

﻿ The BAHS Alumni Association is running a drive to collect used musical instruments to be donated to Bangor’s elementary band program. The instruments will be used as loaners for students who cannot afford to buy or rent them. They will take them regardless of their condition. If you have a musical instrument that is gathering dust, and you want to make a difference in a child’s life, call 610-588-5198. We will pick them up or tell you where you can drop them off. Let’s keep the music coming! Your donations may be tax deductible. Visit slateralums.com for more information.

Drawing WorkshopPocono Arts Cultural Center, 18 N. 7th St., Stroudsburg6:30-8:30pmNever taken a drawing class before? Feel rusty or simply lack confidence? This class is for you. Beginning with a simple contour, you will use line to discover a variety of shapes and forms from a still life to the human figure. The foundational and formal aspects of sketching and drawing will be demonstrated. Explore the steps in drawing from an idea to a sketch to a completed drawing.MATERIALS LISTTuition: Member $75/Non-Member $85: Senior Member $65/Non-Member $75

BHS Choirs Winter Concert Bangor Area High School choirs will hold their winter concert Tuesday, December 5 at 7:30pm in the M. Craig Paine Performing Arts Theater. Performing Ensembles will be the Concert Choir, Symphonic Choir, and Chamber Choir.

​Free RN/LPN Reactivation/Review Info Sessions at NCC Free information sessions will be held at Northampton Community College for nursing professionals with an inactive or international license who would like to re-enter the workforce. Programs will ensure those interested in returning to practice will have everything they require to begin the classes in January 2018. For more information and to register for a session, please visit www.northampton.edu/HealthcareCourses. For questions, please call 610-332-6585. Tuesday, December 5, at the Fowler Family Southside Center in Bethlehem, Room 505, 6 p.m. Thursday, December 7, at the Monroe Campus in Tannersville, Room 011 Kapp Hall, 6 p.m. Monday, January 8, at the Fowler Family Southside Center in Bethlehem, Room 505, 7 p.m.

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December 6​

Wendy’s fundraiser Come out to Wendy's in Wind Gap on December 6th between 5:00 and 8:00 pm. Wendy's will be donating 10% of the sales to Blue Mountain Community Library.

Wednesday Evening Painting WorkshopPocono Arts Cultural Center, 18 N. 7th St., Stroudsburg“Painting Alla Prima” (all at one go)Instructor John McAllister6:30-8:30pm All painting mediums welcome, watercolor, tempera, acrylic, oil, whatever you are comfortable with. Bring your own materials and instructor John McAllister will help you with composition, color, value and basis techniques. The focus of the workshop is to complete or nearly complete a painting in one 2 hour sitting.Tuition: $10.00 ​ ​

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Oil Painting ClassPocono Arts Cultural Center, 18 N. 7th St., StroudsburgInstructor John McAllister6:30-8:30pm This ongoing workshop focuses on the individual, helping them to develop their own personal style and technique working with the oil medium. Learn how to develop your painting by understanding drawing and composition, light and shadow, color, preparation of materials and the application of paint. Working at your own pace, you pick the subject while the instructor guides you through the painting process.MATERIALS LISTTuition: Member $75/Non-Member $85: Senior Member $65/Non-Member $75

Holiday Card Workshop-Art of Linoleum PrintingPocono Arts Cultural Center, 18 N. 7th St., Stroudsburg.Instructor Iraina CaramelliOne Day, December 7, Thursday1-3pm Linoleum printing dates very far back in art history and involves carving an image into linoleum. From this stage you can print and reproduce many times. In this workshop each participant will create 5 cards, however, you can then create many more cards at home.REGISTRATION CUTOFF DATE IS NOVEMBER 20, 2017MATERIALS FEE: $10.00Tuition:Member $15/Non-Member $20

​Free RN/LPN Reactivation/Review Info Sessions at NCC Free information sessions will be held at Northampton Community College for nursing professionals with an inactive or international license who would like to re-enter the workforce. Programs will ensure those interested in returning to practice will have everything they require to begin the classes in January 2018. For more information and to register for a session, please visit www.northampton.edu/HealthcareCourses. For questions, please call 610-332-6585. Tuesday, December 5, at the Fowler Family Southside Center in Bethlehem, Room 505, 6 p.m. Thursday, December 7, at the Monroe Campus in Tannersville, Room 011 Kapp Hall, 6 p.m.​ Monday, January 8, at the Fowler Family Southside Center in Bethlehem, Room 505, 7 p.m.

Hidden Money Public HearingThis past summer, Rep. Joe Emick joined a group of rank-and-file state legislators to uncover more than $3 billion in special fund accounts and fund balances they hoped to use to support the state budget as an alternative to tax increases. They’ve also discovered transfers of money in May that involved attempts to hide revenue from legislators and the public. The money became part of a budget bill that passed the House but not the Senate. The Representatives were promised future hearings on these controversial sources of revenue, and the House Appropriations Committee is prepared to investigate our claims. This Thursday, Dec. 7, the committee will conduct a public hearing on the special funds related to the Department of Transportation. You can watch that hearing on Rep. Emrick's website, www.RepEmrick.com, beginning at 9:30 a.m. Subsequent hearings are scheduled for the following week.

Free Jackets and Hats Slate Belt Common Ground has about 30 new and gently used jackets as well as some new crocheted hats available. Anyone in need of these items can come to our temporary location at 218 W Pennsylvania Ave in Pen Argyl (Faith United Presbyterian Church) from 6 - 7pm on Wednesday, December 6th. These are available on a first come, first served basis. Coats range from sizes for pre-school to adult. Sorry, there are no baby or toddler sizes available. Please enter by the side door on Heller Avenue. Please help us pass the word!​​

December 8 & 9​

Photos with Santa​ Historical Bangor Business Association will have photos with Santa available on December 8th and 9th. On December 8th Santa will be available for pictures at Merchants Bank on Broadway from 4-7pm. On December 9th have your children's picture taken with Santa at Pies to Die For Cafe from 2-5pm. The cost for each photo is $5.00.​

December 9​

​Breakfast With Santa At FUMC The First United Methodist Church, 55 N. 3rd St, Bangor will host a "Breakfast and Photos with Santa" on Saturday, December 9th from 9:00 am to 12:00. Free for everyone! In addition to a hot breakfast and pictures with Santa, kids will also have the opportunity to bake homemade Christmas cookies, enjoy crafts and play games. Register online https://firstumcbangor.ticketleap.com/santa/

27th Annual Old Time Christmas Quiet Valley Living Historical Farm will present its 27th annual Old Time Christmas event on December 9, 10 with candlelit tours leaving every 15 minutes beginning at 3:00 p.m., with the last group going out at 7:00 p.m.

2nd Ward Children's Christmas Party The 2nd Ward volunteer fire company at 517 S. Northampton St. Bangor, PA is having its annual children's Christmas party on December 9th at 1 PM at the firehouse. The children and grandchildren of 2nd Ward residents 12 years of age and younger are welcome to attend. Please contact Cheryl at 610-588-4213, Lisa at 610-599-7993, or Missy at 610-588-6344 with age, sex, and name of children by December 1st. Santa will be arriving by fire truck.

East Bangor Park Tree LightingEast Bangor Park will hold its second annual tree lighting on Saturday, December 9th. The festivities start at 6:30pm; Santa arrivs at 7:00pm and there will be caroling, cookies and hot chocolate.​

Animal Shelter Fundraiser On Saturday December 9th, 6:30pm at Bangor Trust Brewery, 15 Broadway, Bangor, PA. a fundraiser will be held to help raise funds for a new local animal shelter. Bloom Creative Studio will be the guide to help you paint a paw print glass, all materials provided: glass, paint, brushes & a complimentary beer or wine of your choice. Register on line at www.bloombangor.org click on upcoming events or call 610-588-4775​

Lookout Fire Company #1 Annual Toy BINGO Saturday, December 9th, 1:00pm, Weona Park Community Center, Pen Argyl, Pennsylvania. Purchase of tickets will only be available the day of the event, with doors open 11:00am. For more information please email us at info@lookout reco.com. All proceeds from this event benefit the Lookout Fire Company #1.

2017 Holiday House TourThe Bethlehem Historic District Association (BHDA) announces its semi-annual Holiday House Tour on Saturday, Dec. 9, 2017 from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. For a complete list and photos of all the tour properties and a map of locations, visit www.bhdaonline.org or @BHDAhousetour on Facebook.

Winter Fest at Dansbury Depot Dec. 9 1-5:30 PM Tree lighting at 5:30 PM The Annual Winter Fest and Tree Lighting at The Historic Dansbury Depot in East Stroudsburg is a wonderful event where young and old will find a variety of activities to help celebrate this special season. The tree lighting will take place at 5:30 PM. Activities begin at 1. A Santa Train will run at 12 and 2. A dinner will be served on the 4 o’clock train. The event will be filled with music, refreshments, craft making, and horse and carriage rides. Pony rides will be available weather permitting. Kidz Krafts, a silent auction, and a model train display will be inside the depot. Great Christmas gifts will be available for sale at the vendor booths. One may want to visit the restored depot and see first-hand the prized treasure that has been restored to its former glory. Also on site, is the only remaining wooden Railroad Switch Tower on the Delaware Lackawanna line. Visit the tower to observe how the switches were used to control movement of the trains in the area. At5:00, singing and music will lead up to the tree lighting that will occur at 5:30. Come and join the festivities but think about less fortunate people, too. .A collection of canned and dry foods will be collected for the Salvation Army at the depot during the month of December. Items may be brought to the festival or delivered to the depot from 9AM to Noon on week days.​

27th Annual Old Time Christmas Quiet Valley Living Historical Farm will present its 27th annual Old Time Christmas event on today with candlelit tours leaving every 15 minutes beginning at 3:00 p.m., with the last group going out at 7:00 p.m.​​Intermediate Watercolor ClassPocono Arts Cultural Center, 18 N. 7th St., StroudsburgInstructor Iraina Caramelli1-4pm Come join us in this ongoing watercolor journey and discover the flexibility of this wonderful medium. We will cover composition, form, shapes and definitely color!!! Students can work from photos that they have taken or utilize the still life that will be set up during each workshop. A very free approach will be explored where your creativity takes wing. JOIN THE JOURNEY!MATERIALS LISTTuition: Member $85/Non-Member $95: Senior Member $75/Non-Member $85

​Community Open House Community Open House Hosted by Totts Gap Arts will be held Sunday, December 10 at 12 PM - 4 PM at 1494 Totts Gap Rd, Bangor, Pennsylvania 18013What better way to reflect on the accomplishments of the year, than with Totts Gap Annual Community Open House? Join them at Totts Gap Arts and see the last dance showcase of the year, and enjoy art created by our students. Light refreshments will be served, so plan on spending the afternoon with us, and get ready for another year! Free Admission. Kid Friendly.

​Breakfast with Santa An All-You-Can-Eat Pancake breakfast with Santa will be held at the Washington Twp Fire Co. 920Washington Blvd, BangorSunday December 10 from 8-Noon. Tickets are $7.00 and available at the door, Age 3 and under free. Photos with Santa available to purchase. All sales are final. No refunds.

The Great Slate Belt Trivia Contest The Slate Belt Heritage Center, located at 30 North 1st Street, Bangor, PA will hold its first “Great Slate Belt Trivia Contest” on Sunday, December 10th @ 2:00 PM. Master of Ceremonies, Marc Blau will host a trivia game for teams of four or make your own team or just show up and join in another team. Prizes will be awarded to individual team member winners. Refreshments will be available. The event is free and open to the public. Come join the fun. For additional information contact: Karen Brewer at 484-894-5661.

​Sing Alleluia! Christ is Born! A Community Christmas Cantata will be presented on Sunday, December 10 at 3:00 pmin the Sanctuary at Grace United Methodist Church, located at 404 East Mountain Ave. in PenArgyl, PA. The choir is composed of singers from various churches in the Slate Belt Area andwill be directed by Mr. Walter Cole, senior choir director at Grace UMC and accompanied byMr. William Stine. A free will offering will be taken to benefit the Hope UCC Food Pantry inWind Gap, PA. The church is fully handicapped accessible with ample parking. Come and beblessed by the music recounting the birth of our Lord and Savior. Call 610-863- 6472 or 610-863-4811 for information or directions.​

December 11​

AARP Christmas Party Slate Belt AARP Chapter 4135 will hold its Christmas Party on Dec. 11th at noon at TK's in Mt. Bethel. If attending please call Deanna at 610-588-4623for more info.

​Canned Food Drive Lookout Fire Company will hold it's annual canned food drive to benefit the Pen Argyl Salvation Army Food Pantry on Monday, December 11th from 6:45pm to 7:45pm. Residents are asked to place any canned food and/or non-perishable food items in a bag and place it on their front porch with the porch light on. Items will then be picked up by members of the fire company in the fire truck. Items may also be dropped off at the following locations between now and December 11th:

Pen Argyl Borough Hall, 11 N. Robinson Avenue

State Senator Mario Scavello's office, 2 N. Robinson Avenue

Slate Belt YMCA, 315 W. Pennsylvania Avenue

Mirror, Mirror Hair Salon, 106 W. Main Street

Please join us in helping fill our local food bank this holiday season and helping families in need.​

December 12​

Drawing WorkshopPocono Arts Cultural Center, 18 N. 7th St., Stroudsburg6:30-8:30pmNever taken a drawing class before? Feel rusty or simply lack confidence? This class is for you. Beginning with a simple contour, you will use line to discover a variety of shapes and forms from a still life to the human figure. The foundational and formal aspects of sketching and drawing will be demonstrated. Explore the steps in drawing from an idea to a sketch to a completed drawing.MATERIALS LISTTuition: Member $75/Non-Member $85: Senior Member $65/Non-Member $75

​Christmas Luncheon Celebration Bloom will hold a Christmas luncheon celebration on Tuesday, December 12 at 12 noon. The event will be held at Tuscarora Inn and Conference, 3300 River Road, Mt. Bethel, PA. Handcrafted gifts will be available for purchase from 11:30 am to noon and again after lunch. There will be an artist's auction and stories from survivors. Tickets are $20 per person and can be purchased online at bloombangor.org. All proceeds support Bloom, a 2 year restorative community for women overcoming addiction, trauma and trafficking. For more information, contact Andrea at 917-232-5869.​

December 13​

Wednesday Evening Painting WorkshopPocono Arts Cultural Center, 18 N. 7th St., Stroudsburg“Painting Alla Prima” (all at one go)Instructor John McAllister6:30-8:30pm All painting mediums welcome, watercolor, tempera, acrylic, oil, whatever you are comfortable with. Bring your own materials and instructor John McAllister will help you with composition, color, value and basis techniques. The focus of the workshop is to complete or nearly complete a painting in one 2 hour sitting.Tuition: $10.00​

December 14​

Oil Painting ClassPocono Arts Cultural Center, 18 N. 7th St., Stroudsburg​Instructor John McAllister6:30-8:30pm This ongoing workshop focuses on the individual, helping them to develop their own personal style and technique working with the oil medium. Learn how to develop your painting by understanding drawing and composition, light and shadow, color, preparation of materials and the application of paint. Working at your own pace, you pick the subject while the instructor guides you through the painting process.MATERIALS LISTTuition: Member $75/Non-Member $85: Senior Member $65/Non-Member $75

Milk and Cookies with Mr. & Mrs. Santa Claus Pen Argyl’s Family Dental Care Office, Dr. Gary Williams, DMD & Staff, will host Santa & Mrs. Claus on Thursday, December 14th, 2017 from 5:00pm to 6:30pm at their office, 225 South Robinson Avenue in Pen Argyl.Miss Rose’s Preschool in West Bangor will provide some lively Holiday musical selections at 5:15pm in the Dental Office Reception Room area. The Lunch Room, on South Robinson Avenue, will have some amazing Christmas refreshments for all who attend! Dr. Williams had proudly organized and provided “Christmas on South Robinson” for many years, and most recently, all of the above groups participated in “Christmas in a Small Town” in Pen Argyl. This year, they are all back at the dental office location providing this fun activity for all the Slate Belt families. They hope to provide an intimate setting where each child in attendance will have an unrushed visit with Mr. & Mrs. Santa Claus, and receive a little gift. There will be a Food Barrel for contributions of non-perishable foods to help the area food banks during the busy holiday season. Everyone should be sure to bring a camera for beautiful photo opportunities during the festivities!

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December 15​

BHS Band Winter Concert Bangor Area High School bands will winter concert will be held on Friday, December 15 at 7:30pm in the M. Craig Paine Performing Arts Theater at Bangor Area High School. The Concert and Symphonic Bands will each present their own portion of the concert. At the conclusion of the program, both groups will unite on stage for a grand finale complete with a Christmas Carol sing-along and our annual performance of Sleigh Ride conducted by a jolly special guest. Please join us on December15 to share in the holiday joy! For more information visit: bahsbands.weebly.com

Cat Spay/Neuter clinic The Cat Spay/Neuter clinic will be held December 15 at Sun Porch Pooches Pet Grooming, 420 Belvidere Corner Rd., Mount Bethel, PA 18343. Cost is $15 for feral cats, left ear tip required also rabies, and $40 for house cats includes rabies and distemper. These prices are for residents of the Slate Belt Area only or if the cat was adopted through us. Please call Karen at 484-619-1394. They are filling up fast so please call and make your reservations early. ​

December 16​

National Free Throw Contest​ Bangor Lodge #1106 of the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks is pleased to announce the Elks National Hoop Shoot to be held beginning at 1:00 PM on Saturday December 16, 2017 at the Washington Elementary School, 381 Washington Blvd, Bangor, PA. This Free Throw Contest is open to boys and girls ages 8 through 13 and is free to all contestants. Registration will be open beginning at noon on December 16, 2017 at the school gymnasium. Beginning at the local level, winning contestants will advance through District, State, Regional, and National competitions. The Elks helps sponsor contestants and their families at every level of competition. One boy and one girl from each division will win a national title at the National Finals and have their names inscribed in the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame. Two National Champions will receive the Getty Powell Award for most baskets made during the National Finals. The Elks National Hoop Shoot Program, sponsored by the Elks National Foundation, provides a character-building, competitive experience for all contestants. Contestants learn about the importance of respect and good sportsmanship. The Bangor Lodge is a proud sponsor of this annual local event. Winners of this local event will represent our Lodge at the District Free throw competition, also being held at Washington Elementary on February 3, 2018. ​

​Breakfast with Santa in Roseto Columbia Fire Co. No. 1 is Roseto will be sponsoring a Breakfast with Santa on Saturday December 16th from 9-11am at the Roseto Municipal Building. The event is open to all children from Roseto borough as well as children and grandchildren of current Fire Co. members. Cost is FREE for those under 10. Adults and children 10 and over, the cost is $8. Please call 610-588-0597 or email kidsparty@columbiafireco.org for reservations.​

December 16 & 17​

Santa Gift Delivery Mt. Bethel and North Bangor Volunteer Fire Companies will deliver gifts from Santa to your children on Saturday, December 16th from 4-7pm and Sunday, December 17th from 1-4pm. For a $10 donation, Upper Mount Bethel resident can have a pre-wrapped gift delivered to their home by Santa on a Fire Truck. Residents who want to participate can sent their donation (make checks payable Mount Bethel Fire Company) along with their name, address, phone number, email, children's name(s) and ages and the date you'd like delivery to Fire Chief Chris Finan, Attn.: Santa Delivery, 48 Shawnee Drive, Mount Bethel, PA 18343 not later than December 1st. If you'd like to participate but need payment assistance, you can contact Township Board Chairman John Birmignham at johnabermingham@aol.com. All pre-wrapped gifts must be dropped off at Mount Bethel Fire House, 2341 North Delaware Drive, on Friday, December 8th from 5-8pm or Saturday, December 9th from 9am-12pm. If you have any questions, please call Chris Finan at 570-807-7495 or Nancy Finan at 570-807-8160 You can also send an email to MBFC1750@ptd.net re: Santa Delivery.

​Furry Paws with Santa Claus Slate Belt Animal Advocacy Group is hosting Dog Photos with Santa on December 16th at Baby Harry Coffee Co. on Broadway in Bangor. Photos are by appointment and will be taken in the back room of Baby Harry's between 11am and 2pm. The cost is $10 and you will receive and 8X10 photo with copyright release. Appointments are made in 10 minute intervals so please be on time. This is for dogs only and they must be on a leash. The dog's owner will be responsible for keeping the animal under control at all times. If you have more than one dog, they can be in the same picture or you can reserve multiple time slots. Make your reservation by Paypal to BangorPADogPark@gmail.com. Once your payment is made, please send them a message to reserve your time slot.​

December 17​

Intermediate Watercolor ClassPocono Arts Cultural Center, 18 N. 7th St., StroudsburgInstructor Iraina Caramelli1-4pm Come join us in this ongoing watercolor journey and discover the flexibility of this wonderful medium. We will cover composition, form, shapes and definitely color!!! Students can work from photos that they have taken or utilize the still life that will be set up during each workshop. A very free approach will be explored where your creativity takes wing. JOIN THE JOURNEY!MATERIALS LISTTuition: Member $85/Non-Member $95: Senior Member $75/Non-Member $85

December 19​

Drawing WorkshopPocono Arts Cultural Center, 18 N. 7th St., Stroudsburg6:30-8:30pmNever taken a drawing class before? Feel rusty or simply lack confidence? This class is for you. Beginning with a simple contour, you will use line to discover a variety of shapes and forms from a still life to the human figure. The foundational and formal aspects of sketching and drawing will be demonstrated. Explore the steps in drawing from an idea to a sketch to a completed drawing.MATERIALS LISTTuition: Member $75/Non-Member $85: Senior Member $65/Non-Member $75​​

December 20​

Wednesday Evening Painting WorkshopPocono Arts Cultural Center, 18 N. 7th St., Stroudsburg“Painting Alla Prima” (all at one go)Instructor John McAllister6:30-8:30pm All painting mediums welcome, watercolor, tempera, acrylic, oil, whatever you are comfortable with. Bring your own materials and instructor John McAllister will help you with composition, color, value and basis techniques. The focus of the workshop is to complete or nearly complete a painting in one 2 hour sitting.Tuition: $10.00​

December 21​

Oil Painting ClassPocono Arts Cultural Center, 18 N. 7th St., Stroudsburg​Instructor John McAllister6:30-8:30pm This ongoing workshop focuses on the individual, helping them to develop their own personal style and technique working with the oil medium. Learn how to develop your painting by understanding drawing and composition, light and shadow, color, preparation of materials and the application of paint. Working at your own pace, you pick the subject while the instructor guides you through the painting process.MATERIALS LISTTuition: Member $75/Non-Member $85: Senior Member $65/Non-Member $75​​

December 22​

PAHS to Hold "Senior Day" The Class of 2020 at Pen Argyl Area High School will hold a "Senior Day" on Friday, December 22, 2017 from 8:30 am to 12:30 pm. Doors will open at 8:15.Enjoy listening to the sounds of the chorus and jazz band. We will be serving a continental breakfast and lunch will be provided for all attendees. Other activities include quoits, tours of the building, technology lessons, and Bingo! This event is open to all senior citizens of thePen Argyl Area School District. Space is limited, so please RSVP as soon as possible. All reservations must be made no later than December 15 by calling 610-863-1293 Ext. 1.​

December 24​

Christmas Cantata​The East Bangor United Methodist Community Church will present a Christmas Cantata, "Let There Be Christmas" (by Joseph Martin) at the 9:15 a.m.worship service on Sunday, December 24th. At 7:00 p.m. there will be a traditional service of Carols and Candlelighting. Please join us for this Christmas Eve day of songs of praise. The church is located at 136 W. Central Ave. (Rt. 512), East Bangor, PA. For more info., call 610-588-4453 or visit ebumc.org.​

December 26​

Drawing WorkshopPocono Arts Cultural Center, 18 N. 7th St., Stroudsburg6:30-8:30pmNever taken a drawing class before? Feel rusty or simply lack confidence? This class is for you. Beginning with a simple contour, you will use line to discover a variety of shapes and forms from a still life to the human figure. The foundational and formal aspects of sketching and drawing will be demonstrated. Explore the steps in drawing from an idea to a sketch to a completed drawing.MATERIALS LISTTuition: Member $75/Non-Member $85: Senior Member $65/Non-Member $75​​

December 27​

Wednesday Evening Painting WorkshopPocono Arts Cultural Center, 18 N. 7th St., Stroudsburg“Painting Alla Prima” (all at one go)Instructor John McAllister6:30-8:30pm All painting mediums welcome, watercolor, tempera, acrylic, oil, whatever you are comfortable with. Bring your own materials and instructor John McAllister will help you with composition, color, value and basis techniques. The focus of the workshop is to complete or nearly complete a painting in one 2 hour sitting.Tuition: $10.00​

December 28​

Oil Painting ClassPocono Arts Cultural Center, 18 N. 7th St., Stroudsburg​Instructor John McAllister6:30-8:30pm This ongoing workshop focuses on the individual, helping them to develop their own personal style and technique working with the oil medium. Learn how to develop your painting by understanding drawing and composition, light and shadow, color, preparation of materials and the application of paint. Working at your own pace, you pick the subject while the instructor guides you through the painting process.MATERIALS LISTTuition: Member $75/Non-Member $85: Senior Member $65/Non-Member $75​​

​December 30​

Basketball Clinic​ The Pen Argyl Lady Knights will be hosting a basketball clinic on Dec 30 at Wind Gap Middle School- 9-11AM- open to all girls and boys grades 3-6. Cost will be $15. Hope to see you there! #TraditionStartsNow​

January 8​

Free RN/LPN Reactivation/Review Info Sessions at NCC Free information sessions will be held at Northampton Community College for nursing professionals with an inactive or international license who would like to re-enter the workforce. Programs will ensure those interested in returning to practice will have everything they require to begin the classes in January 2018. For more information and to register for a session, please visit www.northampton.edu/HealthcareCourses. For questions, please call 610-332-6585. Tuesday, December 5, at the Fowler Family Southside Center in Bethlehem, Room 505, 6 p.m. Thursday, December 7, at the Monroe Campus in Tannersville, Room 011 Kapp Hall, 6 p.m.​ Monday, January 8, at the Fowler Family Southside Center in Bethlehem, Room 505, 7 p.m.​

Irish Tin Whistle Workshop BETHLEHEM, Pennsylvania - Celtic Cultural Alliance announces an Irish Tin Whistle workshop on January 27, 2018, as part of its continuing mission to promote and preserve the Celtic culture through arts, music, literature, dance, and history programs. Our Irish whistle workshop with instructor Chris Finnegan, will teach the basics of how to play traditional tunes on a D tin whistle to students over age 14. Students will learn the basic fingering and how to get a good sound from the instrument. Simple music will also be introduced. Students should bring their own whistle, and Walton's is the recommended brand. It can be purchased from Donegal Square, 532 Main St., Bethlehem. Chris Finnegan is an Uilleann Piper and Whistle player from Old Bridge, New Jersey. He has performed extensively in the United States and Ireland and holds the distinction of being the Piper to the Regimental Headquarters Staff of the “Fighting 69th” (1st Battalion, 69th Infantry, New York Army National Guard). In addition to the Uilleann Pipes, Chris also plays the Double Bass, Guitar, and Great Highland Bagpipes. Chris performs regularly as a solo musician, in duos and with the Irish Music groups Blackwater and Ballycastle. The class will be held from 1:00 p.m. until 4:00 p.m. at Life in Christ, 51 E. Hillmond St., Bethlehem. The cost is $30, and information and registration can be found at http://www.celticfest.org/irish_tin_whistle_workshop. For more information on the Celtic Classic Highland Games & Festival and other Celtic Cultural Alliance events, visit the organization’s website at www.celticfest.org.​​

BRIEF JOB DESCRIPTION: To provide instruction regarding the knowledge and skills while participating in an activity of this kind. To provide the necessary supervision/direction for the participating students, both individually and as a group for school and athletic events throughout the year.

REQUIREMENTS: Should possess the knowledge and skills associated with which to coach football. Should possess the ability to direct/supervise a program of this kind. In addition, please refer to the attached page for the requirements when applying for a position.SALARY: As per PAASD Supplemental Salary Schedule; dependent upon years of experience